Fideism

This is a type of belief in god that unabashedly admits of no logical justification. Fideists concede that there is no evidence that supports faith in a god or gods. They seek no empirical justification, and they make no scientific claims based on their faith. In the absence of contrary evidence, they simply prefer to have faith over no faith. That faith makes them more comfortable, allows them to engage in prayer, and to participate in a relationship with god and with a community of believers. The justification of their faith is irrelevant to them.

The attitude of Fideism towards reason and logic (with respect to religion) ranges from simple disinterest to outright hostility. Fideists of the latter sort disparage logic and reason as being weak and incapable of ascertaining the most important types of truth, which faith alone can provide. Martin Gardiner, one of the founders of American skepticism, was a Fideist of the former sort. He clearly was a master of logic and reason, but chose not to apply them to his faith. The need for evidence and external reasons for believing are of no consequence in Fideism. Faith for the sake of faith alone, the peace of mind, a sense of greater purpose, the inner strength, and the happiness it can bring is sufficient.